Soapstars given extended contract

Emmerdale viewers watched as the Soapstars family who made their debut on the programme were awarded an extension to their contracts live on air.

The lucky five were originally awarded a three-month contract on the Yorkshire-based drama after winning ITV1's talent search, Soapstars.

But after last night's successful debut they were handed a three-month extension to their contract.

Last night's episode was a one-hour Emmerdale Soapstars special, with Dee Whitehead, Mark Jardine, Elspeth Brodie, Ruth Abram and Jason Hain in the Leeds studios to watch their debut.

They were delighted with the results but their joy turned to elation when the show's producer, Steve Frost, told them they would be staying on with the Bafta-winning team for at least another three months' filming.

Frost said: "We are happy to announce that the actors who arrived with Emmerdale via Soapstars have been offered an extension on their contracts.

"Both they and their characters have fitted well into the show and we are very pleased with their performances.

"All five have worked extremely hard since joining Emmerdale and have fully justified being chosen for the roles."